It is with great excitement that SCP Radiology took delivery of a state-of-the-art new CT machine at its Panorama branch.

It’s the first 256-slice Philips CT 6000 iCT in the Western Cape and also marks SCP’s first venture into both dual-energy and 256-slice computed tomography.

Branch Manager Dr Himal Gajjar emphasises the significance for the practice of bringing such advanced technology to the province, and especially the advancement in cardiac imaging that it offers referring clinicians.

The iCT range is internationally best known for its comprehensive cardiovascular imaging capabilities and, adds Philips SA Applications Specialist Sharon Jacobs, its significant reduction in radiation dose.

Dr Gajjar explains why SCP’s radiologists are looking forward to having the CT 6000 iCT’s capabilities added to their diagnostic toolkit:

256-slice CT

256-slice CT scanners are in the high ranges of CT technology today and are exceptionally well suited for cardiac imaging. Thanks to the high slice count, they can obtain a detailed, full-coverage image of the heart’s structures, functions, and pathologies within seconds.

Dual-energy CT

Dual-energy CT combines X-rays at different energy levels. Because different types of tissue absorb X-rays differently, this technology allows radiographers to obtain images that distinguish between tissue compositions without the need to do more than one scan. It also allows the scanner to provide virtual non-contrast images without needing to rescan the patient, further reducing patient dose.

Cardiac-specific solutions

Built-in technology allows for ECG-gated CT (synchronised to the patient’s heartbeat to prevent movement artefacts on the image), and the capturing of clear images despite irregular heart rhythms, high heart rates, bariatric patients and other known imaging challenges.

Increased speed and coverage

A rotation time of 0.27 seconds and coverage of 8 cm per rotation cut the scan time for most imaging procedures down to literally a few seconds. This will enhance patient comfort and the workflow of a busy radiology department.

Support in challenging tasks

One of the major advantages of faster scan times is that they lower the risk of movement artefacts on images. This could be very helpful in paediatric and trauma scanning, for instance.

Another traditional challenge overcome by the new scanner is access to CT imaging for obese patients. The presence of a bariatric table allows the scanner to accommodate patients of up to 295 kg.

Significantly reduced doses

The powerful combination of technologies enables significantly improved low-dose CT scanning without compromising image quality.

“As radiologists, our primary task is to provide clinicians with the diagnostic tools and insights they need to develop the right treatment plans for their patients,” says Dr Gajjar.

“Part of this responsibility is to stay abreast of the latest imaging technology. SCP has always honoured this responsibility, and the latest addition to our fleet of machines is simply a continuation of that. We’re honoured to contribute its diagnostic benefits to the circle of patient care.”

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For more information on computed tomography, click here.